The IDF has said it is preparing for any possible scenario following the death of Houthi Prime Minister Ghalib al-Rahawi and eight additional ministers in an Israeli airstrike on Thursday.
Israel Air Force officials noted that the Houthis possess independent production capabilities for manufacturing missiles and drones, with parts of their production line supported by purchases from countries such as Iran and North Korea.
While the group does not have a large or readily available weapons arsenal, and the number of launchers in their possession is unknown, the IDF is taking into account that they may attempt to challenge detection and air defense systems.
As a result, the IDF has reinforced certain units in preparation for the oncoming retaliation.
Houthis vow revenge after death of prime minister
According to the Houthis, no senior military officials, who hold greater influence than those killed, were harmed in Israel’s strikes.
“We will take revenge, and what the enemy has achieved is nothing more than a chance success. To the Zionists, I say: dark days await you,” Mahdi al-Mashat, the head of the Houthis’ Supreme Political Council, said in a recorded speech released Saturday night.
In his speech, he also addressed Gaza residents: “To the people of the [Gaza] Strip, we will continue our stance until the aggression stops and the siege is lifted from you, whatever the price may be.”